A client on a mental health unit develops flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure. After reviewing the client's history, it was noted that the client has a diagnosis of schizophrenia and is currently taking risperidone (Risperdal). The nurse should recognize that which of the following adverse effects may be occurring?

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Tardive dyskinesia.

Acute dystonia.

Pseudoparkinsonism.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a severe adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone (Risperdal). Symptoms of NMS include flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle rigidity, and sweating) along with altered mental status, and autonomic dysregulation. It's crucial for the nurse to recognize this potentially fatal condition promptly and intervene appropriately.

Choice B rationale:

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is often a result of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, but it is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face and other body parts. It doesn't typically present with flu-like symptoms or low blood pressure.

Choice C rationale:

Acute dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often involving the muscles of the face, neck, and back. It usually occurs shortly after starting antipsychotic treatment. While it can cause discomfort, it doesn't present with flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure as described in the scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Pseudoparkinsonism, also known as drug-induced parkinsonism, is characterized by symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity. It doesn't typically cause flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is a potential physical symptom of alcohol withdrawal. When alcohol-dependent individuals suddenly stop or reduce their alcohol intake, it can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, resulting in elevated heart rate.

Choice B rationale:

Tremors (shakes) are common during alcohol withdrawal due to the suppression of the central nervous system by alcohol. Abrupt cessation of alcohol can lead to overactivity in the nervous system, resulting in tremors.

Choice C rationale:

Hallucinations can occur during alcohol withdrawal and are usually visual or tactile in nature. These hallucinations are often referred to as alcoholic hallucinosis and can be distressing for the individual experiencing them.

Choice E rationale:

Seizures can be a severe consequence of alcohol withdrawal. Known as alcohol withdrawal seizures, these episodes can occur within the first 48 hours after cessation of heavy alcohol consumption and are attributed to the hyperexcitability of the central nervous system.

Choice D rationale:

Hypotension (low blood pressure) is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. In fact, alcohol withdrawal often leads to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate due to the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system.

A. Twisting tongue movements. B. Constant tapping of feet when sitting. C. Shuffling gait. D. Sudden onset of high fever.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Twisting tongue movements are characteristic manifestations of tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is a movement disorder associated with long-term use of antipsychotic medications like fluphenazine (Prolixin). These involuntary movements often involve the face and tongue and can be irreversible if not addressed promptly.

Choice B rationale:

Constant tapping of feet when sitting is not a typical manifestation of tardive dyskinesia. This type of movement might be related to restlessness or anxiety, but it is not specifically associated with the movement disorder caused by prolonged antipsychotic use.

Choice C rationale:

Shuffling gait can be associated with parkinsonism, which is another potential adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, including fluphenazine. However, for tardive dyskinesia, the characteristic movements are more often related to the face and mouth rather than the legs and gait.

Choice D rationale:

Sudden onset of high fever is not a manifestation of tardive dyskinesia. It could potentially be a sign of a different medical issue, such as an infection. However, it is not directly related to the movement disorder caused by long-term antipsychotic use.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse on the medical unit is admitting a client with a history of alcohol use disorder. The nurse is aware that which of the following are potential physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal? (Select all that apply.).

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with schizophrenia, which has been treated with fluphenazine (Prolixin) for several years. Which of the following findings should the nurse document as manifestations of tardive dyskinesia (TD)?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is talking with a client diagnosed with schizophrenia. Suddenly the client states, "I'm frightened. Do you hear that? The voices are telling me to do terrible things." Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

A nurse in the Emergency Department is caring for a client with symptoms of depression and admits to thoughts of self-harm with a plan. The client has a history of borderline personality disorder, depression, and substance abuse. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

A nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with end-stage liver cancer. The nurse recognizes that which of the following responses is an indication the client is in the denial phase of the grief process?

The nurse is assessing a client in group therapy on which type of techniques for modifying behaviors would be most appropriate. The nurse has decided to use covert sensitization. Which of the following statementbest describes this type of therapy?

While in group therapy, a nurse is caring for a client who has cancer and is scheduled for immediate chemotherapy. The client tells the nurse that she wants to try nontraditional treatments first. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A male client is admitted to the unit with a possible diagnosis of delirium. Which statement by the client's wife best supports the diagnosis?

A nurse in the ER is admitting a client who has experienced a weight loss of 11 kg (25 lb) in the past 3 months. The client weighs 40 kg (88 lb) and believes she is fat. Which of the following aspects of care should the nurse consider the first priority for this client?

A nurse is planning care for a client newly admitted with major depressive disorder. After ensuring safety, which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?